Grana Padano

Grana Padano is a hard, cooked cow's milk cheese made in Northern Italy. It is usually used as a grating cheese over pasta and other dishes. It was developed originally by Cistercian monks of Chiaravalle Abbey near Milan.

Grana Padano is very similar to Parmigiano-Reggiano but is a little less crumbly, more mild, and less sharp.

Where to buy

Grana Padano can be found in many of the same quality grocery stores that carry authentic Parmigiano Reggiano. Often it is slightly cheaper than its better-known cousin. The cheaper price is not a reflection of quality, however. Grana Padano is well worth trying.